In this week’s Get to Know, we are pleased to introduce Jonathan P. Kurtz, a member of ASPE’s Connecticut Chapter.
ASPE: If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?
Jonathan: I have always wanted to go to Dubai. I find the entire area intriguing and would love to visit the Palm Islands. The work and engineering that it took to make these developments are impressive.
ASPE: What is your favorite animal?
Jonathan: Dog, without a doubt. They become part of the family.
ASPE: What are your hobbies outside of work?
Jonathan: My wife and I enjoy going to concerts. We listen to a very wide variety of music. Sometimes the small local venues are the best places to see live music. Hopefully we will be able to go again after COVID-19 is controlled.
ASPE: What do you do to relax?
Jonathan: I grew up riding snowmobiles and ATVs. The places that you can reach are breathtaking. I find it soothing to be out in nature and remote. It helps to clear my mind.
ASPE: If you could play any sport professionally, what would it be and why?
Jonathan: Baseball. I grew up playing hardball through high school and played softball for many years. My family and I enjoy going to games together and are fortunate that we live close to several MLB parks. When not at games we are usually watching at home.
ASPE: Do you have a favorite vacation spot? Where is it and why do you keep going back?
Jonathan: We have two places that we frequent. I have been fortunate to have grown up with a family vacation house in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, which is where we enjoy snowmobiling, ATVing, fishing, and just plain relaxing. We also have a timeshare in Cape Cod where we enjoy the beach during the summertime.
ASPE: If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
Jonathan: Any Caribbean island. It is simply gorgeous in the Caribbean, and the various cultures are interesting to see and learn about. The whole simple and relaxed lifestyle is inviting.
ASPE: What is your favorite meal? Is it prepared at home or found at a restaurant?
Jonathan: Any sort of shellfish. I love buying fresh oysters and clams from local farmers markets. It’s always best right at home.
ASPE: What is one interesting ability you have or an interesting fact about yourself?
Jonathan: I am a third-generation volunteer firefighter. I have been involved in the Volunteer Fire Service in my town since I was 16 years old and have held ranks of Lieutenant, Captain, and Assistant Chief. I hold several state certifications and am a certified State Fire Instructor. Currently I serve as the Treasurer for one of the fire companies in town. My eldest son is the fourth generation from my family to serve.
ASPE: What is your proudest accomplishment?
Jonathan: Without a doubt, my two sons, watching them grow into the young men they have become.
ASPE: What song would you say best sums you up?
Jonathan: Easy: “The Dance” by Garth Brooks.
